At a minimum get your Leaving Cert, that’s required anyway. But don’t sell yourself short aim for a third level college qualification, something like a science degree. It may not have obvious benefits now but the career is changing direction so fast it could stand to you big time.

Take your time in applying I joined the service when I was 25 yrs old and looking back I think around that age is the right time. When you consider some of the calls we attend and things we may need to deal with, joining at 17 or 18 after the Leaving Cert with little or no life experiences may turn you off because it is very demanding physically, mentally and emotionally.

The Social person's interests focus on some aspect of those people in their environment. In all cases the social person enjoys the personal contact of other people in preference to the impersonal dealings with things, data and ideas found in other groups.

Many will seek out positions where there is direct contact with the public in some advisory role, whether a receptionist or a counsellor. Social people are motivated by an interest in different types of people, and like diversity in their work environments. Many are drawn towards careers in the caring professions and social welfare area, whilst others prefer teaching and other 'informing' roles.

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Garda

Emilia Gilroy, Garda

Emilia Gilroy is a Garda stationed in Tallaght, Dublin. She is originally from Poland and graduated from Templemore Garda College in 2015. As her career within the organisation progresses Emilia hopes to undertake a course in specialist interviewing.

We Asked...

Education and Training?

What subjects did you take in school and how have these influenced your career path?

In school I was not choosing any particular subjects to suit my career. I just did what I liked. When I went to college I studied Political science, but I never finished this course.

What is your education to date?

Leaving Cert.

What aspects of your education have proven most important for your job?

Leaving Cert as it is the basic requirement for joining An Garda Síochána.

Have you undertaken, or do you plan to undertake any further training as part of your job?

As a new recruit I still have the whole career ahead of me and I hope to be able to undertake as much training as possible. In particular I’d like to do a driving and specialist interviewer’s courses.